About Dr. Shelton
Advancing Innovation, Knowledge, and Transformation Through Expertise and Dedication
A Visionary in Psychology and Technology
Dr. Christopher R. Shelton is a clinical psychologist, educator, researcher, speaker, and consultant dedicated to transforming mental health access and technology integration. His work spans a broad spectrum, from evidence-based ADHD interventions to consulting on cutting-edge immersive technologies.
Current positions
- (2018 – Present) Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology at Pennsylvania State University, The Behrend College
- (2019 – Present) Director, Virtual/Augmented Reality Lab ( VAR Lab)
- (2024 – Present) Licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania (#PS020200)
Notable achievements
- 2020, 2023, & 2024 – Penn State Behrend Open Lab Awardee
- 2021 – “40 Under 40” Awardee, Innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders helping move us into the future, Erie Reader
- 2021 – VAR Lab achieves national ranking
- 2021 – Founded one of the nation’s first labs (VAR Edu) to facilitate immersive experiences at classroom-scale and consult with schools and universities to replicate its
success.
- 2019 – Founded the Virtual/Augmented Reality Lab (VAR Lab)
Dr. Christopher R. Shelton
Education and Licensure
Expertise Built Through Rigorous Training
2011
Bachelor of Arts
(Psychology)
Graduated from Northern Illinois University
Master of Arts
(Clinical Psychology)
Graduated from Eastern Illinois University
2013
2018
Doctor of Philosophy
(Clinical Psychology)
Graduated from the University of Wyoming
APA-Accredited Internship
(Clinical Psychology)
Completed at the University of Miami
College Counseling Center
2018
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Pennsylvania (License #PS020200)
2024
Dr. Shelton’s Professional Roles.
My Work at a Glance
Teaching: I teach undergraduate and graduate courses, including abnormal psychology, developmental psychopathology, clinical practicum and internship, and group interventions.
Research: My research focuses on ADHD and cognitive disengagement syndrome (CDS; formerly known as
Sluggish Cognitive Tempo or SCT),
digital mental health tools, and the use of immersive technologies to revolutionize a range of fields, including learning and wellness.
Dr. Shelton also founded and is the Director of the Virtual/Augmented Reality Lab (VAR Lab) at Penn State Behrend, which is one of the largest employers of student researcher assistants at the University.
Learn more about Dr. Shelton’s research here.
Speaking: I deliver engaging talks on ADHD management, digital mental health, and the transformative power of immersive technologies in various domains.
Training: I design and deliver tailored training programs for educators, healthcare professionals, corporate teams, and community organizations. My workshops and hands-on sessions focus on topics like ADHD management, digital mental health tools, and immersive technologies, empowering participants with actionable skills and strategies
Consulting: As a consultant, I provide bespoke solutions for schools, businesses, and organizations aiming to leverage digital mental health tools or XR technologies.
Fun fact
When I’m not researching or teaching, I enjoy exploring how the latest technologies can enhance mental health care and education.
Why Dr. Shelton Does What He Does
About Immersive Technologies
Immersive technologies like AR/VR are revolutionizing industries far beyond psychology. At the VAR Lab, we empower students from all majors to explore applications in education, historical museums, industry and manufacturing, healthcare, and advocacy—transforming how we learn, create, and innovate.
– Dr. Shelton
About Digital Mental Health
Digital mental health solutions are the key to addressing systemic challenges like limited access, high costs, and outdated care models. By leveraging teletherapy, AI-driven tools, and scalable technologies, we can transform mental health care to be more accessible, effective, and affordable for everyone.
